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May 05th, 2021

Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso

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Semester Abroad
Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso
Valparaiso, Chile
Since its foundation in 1928, the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso (PUCV) has established itself as one of the most prestigious institutions of the Chilean higher educational system. Its alumni body is characterized by the institutional seal: excellent academic and professional education, solid human values, and strong commitment to public service. The university is an institution dedicated, enlightened by Christian faith, to the cultivation and dissemination of knowledge in science, art, and professional and technical fields. It is a comprehensive university, permanently facing new challenges, and anticipating and satisfying society’s requirements.

In recent years, Chile has become one of the most preferred destinations for those who wish to learn Spanish. To this effect, PUCV offers different Spanish learning programs that vary according to the Spanish level of the student, the time available, and the number of students.

Additionally, HPU students are able to enroll in regular courses with Chilean students, according to their academic needs. Regular courses are taught in Spanish. The city of Valparaíso is rich in history and architecture and is the former main port in Latin America. It has received international recognition by being nominated “World Heritage Site” by UNESCO. It is known as an important gate to the Pacific Ocean and for being the Country’s Parliament headquarters. It sits only 2 hours from the Chilean capital, Santiago, and is a short bus ride away from Viña del Mar and its renowned beaches. The area is characterized by the magnificent architecture of its buildings, the natural amphitheatre formed by the surrounding hills looking at the Pacific Ocean and numerous funiculars, winding roads, and eclectic culture.

At PUCV, you’ll find a total immersion context with bilingual and bicultural professors teaching courses that complement classroom work with community experience. In addition, your homestay experience will continue to enforce this value of immersion and cultural interaction. PUCV also offers ways for exchange students to engage in university life, from music and concerts to sports and recreation as well as religious assistance services, cultural outreach, a cinema library, and PUCV Television, Radio, and University Press.
Top 3 Reasons to Study Here
01
Improve your Spanish language skills and cultural understanding while living with a local Chilean family.
02
Take advantage of a wide and diverse course offering taught in Spanish, according to your entry level.
03
Immerse yourself in one of the most important and attractive cities in Chile and Latin America.
Program Fees
Tuition, Fees, Room & Board
Standard HPU rates to be paid to HPU.
Heath & Safety
At the time of publishing, the rate is estimated at $325 per semester, to be paid to HPU.
Additional Expenses
Students will be responsible for all travel, immigration, and personal and other expenses.
Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso
Valparaiso, Chile
Terms
Applications are due during the spring semester prior to the study abroad term.
Fall Semester Study Abroad:
- July through November
- Application Deadline: March 1

Spring Semester Study Abroad:
- February through July
- Application Deadline: May 1
Requirements
2.75 GPA
Completion of SPN 2140, Concurrent enrollment in at least 1 3000-level Spanish course preferred during application.
Sophomore status
Office of Global Education, Cottrell Hall, Suite 142
Academic Program
This program is designed primarily for language study for our Spanish majors and minors. Spanish courses may include:

Intensive Spanish Courses (exclusive for international students)

Chilean Culture and Communicative Spanish (90 hours, 6 credits)

Written Spanish (60 hours, 3 credits)

Grammar for Foreigners (60 hours, 4 credits)

Ortophony and Pronunciation (workshop- 60 hours, 2 credits)

Important Notes:
-While PUCV also offers Programa Internacional de Intercambio Estudiantil (PIIE) which complements its educational programs with a wide variety of extracurricular, tourist, and cultural activities that bolster language learning, exchange students from the United States cannot take PIIE courses taught in English. There are various ways for undergraduate students to study abroad at PUCV, each catering to the needs of both the student and the university.


-Regular University Courses are confirmed at the beginning of each term. The registration process will be held during orientation. Some Law and Philosophy courses are offered on an annual basis.
Credit Transfer
For High Point University to recognize the credits you complete abroad, you must earn at least a grade equivalent to a C in the U.S. HPU will not accept credit for courses with grades of C– or below. Grades for all courses earned abroad are recorded on the international transcript. Credits are received by HPU as transfer credits, which means the credit is received but the grade is not. Your HPU grade point average will not be impacted positively or negatively by your study abroad courses.